Early reactions to Ikkis (2026) are rolling in, and the chatter has a clear favourite: Jaideep Ahlawat. In a fresh early review by Mukesh Chhabra, Ahlawat is described as the unexpected scene-stealer — outshining even the film’s marquee names like Dharmendra and newcomer Agastya Nanda. Here’s a closer look at what critics and early viewers are saying about the film.
Early buzz: What people are talking about
Ikkis arrives with high curiosity thanks to its eclectic casting. While audiences expected the veteran charm of Dharmendra and the curiosity around Agastya Nanda’s big-screen potential, Mukesh Chhabra’s early take highlights Jaideep Ahlawat as the performance that lingers. The consensus so far: this is a character-driven film where a powerful supporting turn changes the balance.
Jaideep Ahlawat: The surprise package
Ahlawat’s portrayal is being praised for its depth and restraint. Instead of loud theatrics, he opts for nuanced reactions — small signatures that build into something memorable. Reviewers point to a few scenes where Ahlawat moves the needle simply through presence: a silent confrontation, a late-night confession, moments that reveal layers without exposition.
- Intensity with control: Ahlawat balances edge and empathy, making his character unpredictable yet believable.
- Scene-stealer moments: His brief but pivotal screen time elevates key sequences and gives the film emotional weight.
- Range on display: From simmering menace to quiet vulnerability, Ahlawat covers an impressive span in a compact role.
Dharmendra and Agastya Nanda: What they bring
Dharmendra’s presence is warm and commanding, as expected from a screen legend. He lends gravitas to the narrative, but his role is deliberately measured and limited — more emblematic than dominant. Fans will appreciate his aura, even if he isn’t the film’s driving force.
Agastya Nanda, still early in his career, shows promise. Mukesh Chhabra’s review notes that Agastya has moments of authenticity and screen chemistry, but he’s not yet as textured as the more seasoned performers. The film gives him room to grow, and this outing may be an important step in that direction.
Direction, screenplay and technicalities
The film’s storytelling is described as focused on characters rather than spectacle. Direction keeps the pace deliberate, building tension in parts but occasionally letting the middle lag. The screenplay serves its core beats well, though a few subplots could have been tighter.
- Cinematography: Mood-driven photography complements the story’s tone, with thoughtful framing in key emotional scenes.
- Music and score: A restrained background score helps the drama without overpowering it.
- Editing: Mostly crisp, with one or two stretches that could have used a firmer trim.
Where the film stumbles
Early reviews point to a couple of weaknesses. The pacing occasionally loses steam, and some supporting characters don’t get enough development to make their choices feel fully earned. There are also moments where the film leans on familiar tropes instead of surprising the audience.
Verdict: Who should watch Ikkis?
Ikkis is recommended for viewers who enjoy performance-led cinema. If you watch for strong acting and character moments, Jaideep Ahlawat’s work alone makes the film worth a look. Fans of Dharmendra will appreciate his dignified presence, and Agastya Nanda’s role will interest those following fresh talent.
Bottom line
Not flawless, but compelling in parts. Mukesh Chhabra’s early review positions Ikkis as a film that belongs to performances rather than plot fireworks — and in that sense, Jaideep Ahlawat emerges as the true surprise. Expect an engaging, actor-driven experience that rewards patient viewers.